Delta First Lady Rallies State To Tackle Digital Violence Against Women, Girls
By PAULINA NZERUBE
DELTA State First Lady, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, on Tuesday launched the 2025 edition of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, urging a united front against the rising cases of digital abuse targeting women and girls.
Speaking at the flag-off in Asaba, she said this year’s theme — “Unite! End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls” — reflects the urgent need to confront online harassment, cyberstalking, image-based abuse and other forms of digital violence. She called on families, communities, institutions and leaders to end the culture of silence that protects perpetrators.
The First Lady condemned the tendency to shield abusers, citing real-life cases where minors suffered prolonged abuse because guardians defended offenders. She stressed that security agencies can only act when cases are reported and reaffirmed her commitment to working with ministries, security agencies, civil society and faith-based organisations to strengthen protection for women and girls.
Commissioner for Women Affairs, Princess Pat Ajudua, said women’s groups across the state are mobilised for awareness activities during the campaign. Police spokesperson Bright Edafe urged parents to monitor their children closely and report offenders instead of hiding cases, noting recent disturbing incidents involving minors.
Director of the VAP Law, Uche Akamagwuna, revealed that minors now account for nearly half of gender-based violence cases in the state. She said the campaign will help strengthen accountability and praised the domestication of the Violence Against Persons Law.
Representatives from the Ministry of Justice highlighted ongoing efforts to improve the justice system’s response to sexual and domestic violence.
The 16 Days of Activism, held annually from 25 November to 10 December, focuses on ending all forms of violence against women and girls and promoting stronger reporting, awareness and prevention measures statewide and globally.
